Why Smoking and Cosmetic Procedures Don’t Mix?

Considering having a cosmetic procedure and you’re a smoker? You may want to take a moment to read this blog before lighting up your next cigarette to find out why smoking and cosmetic procedures don’t mix.
You probably already know that smoking, along with chewing tobacco or using any product that contains nicotine is generally bad for you. The risks of cancer, cardiovascular issues, damage to your teeth and skin, are just a few of the many side effects of using these products. Other effects include vasoconstriction, a condition in which the blood vessels constrict and slow down the flow of blood. Nicotine makes the blood vessels constrict, and when this happens after a cosmetic procedure healing can be impeded. Healing is interrupted because when blood flow is restricted, the tissue affected by the cosmetic procedure does not get the vital oxygen and nutrients that are needed to heal. The longer the affected tissue takes to heal, the greater the risk of health complications, like an infection.

While many of the procedures that Dr. Johnson performs are minimally invasive, some procedures, like the tummy tuck, are a bit more involved. The longer it takes patients to heal can also increase the risk of developing more prominent scars. Not only does smoking and nicotine use impact skin tissue healing, but it also can kill off fat cells that are involved in procedures like fat transfers. Fat, like any other tissue, depends on oxygen to survive, and when it dies off, it can form unsightly lumps under the skin. Patients who use nicotine products are also at risk of developing blood clots, which in combination with constricted blood vessels set the stage for heart attacks and strokes. Patients who are looking to have cosmetic procedures are encouraged to stop smoking completely in order to maximize results and improve their health. If patients cannot stop using nicotine products, they should quit for no less than six weeks, both before and after the procedure.

Do you have questions about smoking, your health, and your desired procedure? Give Dr. Johnson a call at 214-643-8665 today.